5 Questions That Turn Challenges Into Growth Opportunities for Kids

Despite a half-dozen reminders, multiple timers and a bunch of heads-up, when it’s time for her daughter to get off her device and come to the dinner table, Charlotte finds herself in the same power struggle she’s been through hundreds of times before. (Okay, it just feels like hundreds.) 

Can you relate?

When these kinds of conflicts come up, it’s all too easy to react out of frustration. And that’s bound to escalate things even further. 

So, instead of reacting, we want to pause, untangle our emotions and look for the learning opportunity in this challenging situation (because there always is one).

To be fair, it’s not easy to do this while in the moment, but it’s absolutely worth it if we can. Responding in this way helps everyone get back to calm more quickly, creates space for the development of skills and deepens our relationship with our kids.  

Turn challenges into an opportunity for connection and growth.

The next time you find yourself in a power struggle or conflict with your child, especially one in which you’re stuck in a negative loop, consider these five questions:

What is it in this situation that you are making about you?

If we are triggered by our child’s behavior, it’s almost always because we’re making their choice mean something about us and how good (or bad) we are as a parent. When we have a strong emotional reaction to something our child is doing, we need to ask ourselves: What am I making this mean?

She doesn’t respect me. She shouldn’t be ignoring me. She doesn’t care about our shared agreement. 

How does the challenge highlight your child’s undeveloped skills or abilities?

By realizing our child’s behavior is simply the result of their lack of skills, the situation stops being personal. Instead, it becomes a chance to better see our child for who they are right now and to identify areas for future growth. So, what is the challenge revealing about your child?

She struggles with predicting how much time certain tasks take. She has a hard time when people place demands on her. She has a tough time leaving a task half-finished. 

What can your child learn from the challenge or situation?

Absolutely every challenge with our child presents an opportunity for developing nascent skills. It’s important that we give ourselves time to pinpoint the opportunity for growth in the situation and to consider ways to reframe the challenge. Where is the learning opportunity?

She can learn that when she respectfully communicates her needs, she’ll not only avoid conflict, but she can be part of a solution that feels so much better for everyone.

What can you learn about yourself through this challenge or situation?

Every time we focus on, reflect and reframe these difficult moments, we learn more about our own personal triggers and increase our own emotional IQ. How can I grow through this situation?

Being ignored by my child is really challenging for me, but when I remember to pause and process before responding, we can actually shorten the conflict. 

How can your connection with your child deepen as a result of the challenge?

Going through this inquiry process and responding with more empathy, respect and validation helps us come out on the other side of a conflict feeling even more deeply connected to our child. How might our relationship grow closer through this? 

When we remember we’re on the same side and work together to come up with a solution, we always feel more connected than ever.

Editor’s note: This content was previously published in “Psychology Today” in October 2018 and is reprinted with permission here. Want to learn more about Debbie Reber? Join us at our upcoming ParentEd Talks featuring Reber on Tuesday, Oct. 10.

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Win Four Tickets to Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings Game

With the fall weather finally here, there’s nothing we love more than colorful leaves, big sweaters and watching a Lions game. Get ready for a family day that’s sure to be a touchdown!

We’ve partnered with Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers to give one lucky family the ultimate football experience — four tickets to a Detroit Lions game! Your kids will love to be in on the action for the final home game of the season during the week of Jan. 7, 2024. We also created a family guide to help make it a great game day for everyone.

All geared up for the kickoff? Fill out the below form before Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, to enter to win.

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Tips to Help Prevent Your Child From Quitting

Failure is an important part of learning. It helps students learn their strengths and weaknesses and develop the skills to overcome them. But sometimes, children can start giving up after experiencing a cycle of failures at school. Even very bright children can become prone to beginning tasks very halfheartedly and giving up at the first sign of difficulty.

It can be hard for parents to watch their child give up instead of digging in and trying harder. There are many reasons kids give in.

Psychiatrists call this “learned helplessness.” It can happen in the early grades because of emotional immaturity, low frustration level or over-dependency on adults.

When required effort ramps up

That tendency to give up can happen when children start fourth or sixth grade because these are points when learning requires more effort, and some bright children have no strategies for handling difficult assignments and give up too quickly.

It’s not easy for these children to overcome the tendency to give up when the going gets tough, but they can with continued help from teachers and parents. Support may be just what your child needs now.

Model problem-solving skills

By modeling how to approach a problem and giving specific instructions at every step along the way, parents can help their children learn how to tackle difficult assignments. You can do this by teaching kids:

• Effective problem-solving strategies
• To look for more than one approach when solving a problem
• To retrace their steps to find errors
• To use self-talk as a guide for solving problems

Don’t forget, some very powerful people failed before becoming successful. Read about them — and why good parents let their kids fail.

Content sponsored by Michigan Education Savings Program. Visit MIsaves.com.
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How to Prepare for Senior Year of High School

Some teens decide to take it easy and slack off the last year of high school, coming in late and skipping classes. But when it comes to how to prepare for senior year of high school with success, succumbing to senioritis isn’t the wisest move.

Taking a hands-off approach to the final year of high school might seem tempting, but it’ll leave students fumbling into college playing catch-up.

Jaylin Harris, 18, a 2018 graduate from Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Detroit and a student activist, says wisely using the weeks — and even years — before the first day of senior year is the key to starting, and finishing, strong.

Senior year can feel daunting even with the end of high school in sight. Preparing for college – the essays, applications and transcripts – is a huge task. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Read on for our tips on how to prepare for senior year of high school.

Get your sleep schedule in order

Before the school year starts, Harris says one of the easiest and most impactful tactics is to start shifting when you go to bed.

“It’s a good idea to start adjusting the sleep schedule about a month before,” he says. “Get yourself prepared by going to bed at 9 or 9:30 p.m. — you should aim for all eight hours of sleep and eat breakfast in the morning.”

Using a sleep cycle calculator can also help: Waking up at the end of a cycle, which ends every 90 minutes, will make it feel like waking up naturally.

Start volunteering in the summer

Harris, a student and community activist, organized his school’s walkouts during his senior year. Balancing his activism work with his schoolwork was difficult, he says, but using his summers to slowly build relationships with other activist groups and mentors prevented him from feeling overwhelmed.

“Start volunteering and working with activists before school starts to make sure you have the right people and contacts, and that will let you have the right timing when it comes to organizing,” he says.

There are a variety of teen volunteer opportunities in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor that let kids get their foot in the door and help their communities, too – all while gaining valuable experience before college.

Write your college essays early

When it comes to needing college application help, one common source of angst is the essay. It’s an area Harris knows well – and one where planning, again, pays off.

“I struggle with writing essays, and for others that struggle, too, I encourage them to write them before they get into their junior year,” he says. “They can even be written in your sophomore year.”

He says writing essays in the summer gives more time to ask others to read them and provide feedback. If the task still seems overwhelming, get some friends involved. Head to the library with a few pals and devote an hour or two reading and giving feedback on each other’s essays.

Ask counselors for help

Harris says one of the most important things he did before starting senior year was leave an impression with the school’s counselors.

Make a connection, and these school professionals can provide direction in a variety of areas – whether it’s finding the right college fit, getting financial aid for college or offering advice on taking a gap year between high school and college.

“Even if your school has separate counselors for each grade, standing out to your counselor will be important,” Harris says. “All the counselors talk, and if they know you, they can help you more – with FAFSA, essays, scholarships and everything else.”

Reach out to teachers

Keeping an open line of communication with teachers is another helpful tip on that checklist of how to prepare for senior year of high school. Harris says if you know you’ll need extra help with a subject, you can reach out to teachers via email over the summer to ask for ways to prepare.

If you do start to struggle when the school year starts, be sure to “ask for help in the beginning of the year – that’s what I did, and the teachers worked with me.”

Stay organized

Figure out an agenda-keeping method that works for you, and get the supplies you’ll need to keep it up before school starts. Bullet journaling, an agenda-keeping style that uses different symbols to indicate the status of tasks, has become popular with students, and there are even Instagram pages, like @thepalepaper, devoted to it.

Harris says the most important thing for students using an agenda is to write everything down – even if they think they’ll remember. “Put something on the fridge to remind yourself of things like when your practice starts,” he says. “And don’t try to overbook yourself.”

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Applying for College Checklist for Students and Parents

Tip: Read on for our applying for college checklist – and be sure to check out our choosing a college checklist, preparing for college checklist and affording college checklist, too.

At times, applying for college can feel like you need a graduate degree just to navigate the process. The good news? Colleges are actively working to make applying easier (some don’t even require essays!). And your child’s high school has likely expanded its efforts, too, to help your child take the next step in her education.

Use these handy tips and suggestions as a guide to help you and your child understand the ins and outs of applying for college.

1. Meet with the high school counselor

Guidance departments can be a huge help in the application process. Chances are your child’s high school guidance counselor already has timelines and checklists to follow with your student to ensure he’s on track to apply for college.

That said, he still needs to do the work to apply; counselors are there to assist, but not to do the work for students. Encourage him to check in with his guidance counselor regularly (keep in mind, schools may use a different title for college counselors).

“I definitely recommend students get to know their school counselor,” says Mandee Heller Adler, a certified educational planner and founder of International College Counselors. “They’re the ones who really guide students – unless they have an independent counselor – on school selection, how to write an essay, how to interact with college reps and when those reps are visiting area schools.”

2. Create a list of colleges to apply to

Some college experts recommend having a “safety” school or two on the list, or those that your child will have no difficulty getting into. Adler, who’s been involved in counseling would-be college students for 15 years, suggests that your child develop a list of 10 schools that she’d really like to attend, particularly because she may decide she doesn’t want to attend her safety” school.

“With 3,200 colleges in the country, your child should be able to find 10 that are a good fit,” Adler adds.

List out the schools either on paper, in an Excel spreadsheet or a shared Google document that you can both access in real-time. This will make tracking where your child is at in the application process simple.

3. Review each college’s website for deadlines

Once your child has chosen the colleges where he wants to apply, review each college’s website for information on application deadlines. While each school will have its own deadlines, the basic choices include regular decision, rolling admissions, early action and early decision.

Create a column on your tracking document to write down the application dates for each school, along with any requirements for the application. For example, many schools use a shared application service, like the Universal College Application, Common Application or the Coalition Application.

Through these services, your child can create one application and then send it to multiple schools. Again, read the requirements carefully and record what you learned so that you can easily refer back to that information later.

4. Understand application deadline choices

Each of the deadline options has advantages and disadvantages that your student needs to understand before applying.

In simple terms, early decision means that if the school accepts you, you’re obligated to attend that university – that’s part of the early decision package. If your student is set on one particular school, this option may make sense for him.

With early action, your student can apply to multiple schools and will hear back sooner than with regular decision – and isn’t obligated to attend the school, if accepted. But make sure to read the fine print; some schools have “restrictive” early action applications that do require the student’s commitment to attend.

The advantages to the early options are debatable — some experts believe it can give students an edge on acceptance by showing their interest in the school and demonstrating they are organized and dedicated. In the end, it’s best to do your homework on each school and ask specific questions of the college and your student’s school counselor to determine what makes the most sense.

5. Gather your application materials

Your child can work with her school counselor to track down all the necessary elements to her college applications, including test scores (like ACT and SAT), essays, letters of recommendation and her high school transcript. Again, these are the basics, but each school may have different requirements. For example, some may require an essay and supplemental questions; others won’t ask for either.

To make this part of the process easier, Adler offers this tip: “Get as much of the application done as early as you can. Finish the ACT or SAT in 11th grade and ask for letters of recommendation in 11th grade. Use that summer between junior and senior year to get as much done as possible.”

6. Arrange for interviews, if applicable

Very few colleges still have interviews as part of their application process. That said, students should consider any interaction they have with the school as an opportunity to showcase their maturity and professionalism. Reinforce with your child that he should work to present himself well, whether that’s when meeting college reps at school, sending them emails or going on college visits.

7. Fill out and submit application materials

Once your child has gathered all of her materials, it’s time to submit. Use your tracking document to write in the dates of submissions and any other notes about when your child will hear back on her application.

Follow-up with schools, where appropriate, to make sure the application is complete. Many schools show the application completion information online, so it’s simple for your student to see that she’s submitted everything.

8. Apply for financial aid

For many students, the key piece in deciding among the various options is the available financial packages. Students can apply for financial aid through the school’s website.

Parents should also complete the FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), which will guide you through what financial aid assistance your child may qualify for, such as grants, scholarships and loans.

9. Start deciding

Now the good part — as your student starts receiving acceptance and rejection letters, carefully review the options together to decide on the school that will offer him the best education, along with the right cultural fit. “Applying for college carries a lot of important lessons for students,” Adler says.

“Good lessons about putting yourself out there, not always getting what you want and really working hard for something. I will tell you in the 15 years I’ve been doing this, it really does work out. There’s a college for every kid. I really believe that.”

This post was originally published in 2019 and is updated regularly.

Content sponsored by Michigan Education Savings Program. Visit MIsaves.com.
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Best Over-the-Top Desserts in Dearborn

If we had to give an award for the Dessert Capitol of Metro Detroit, Dearborn deserves that title! The Wayne County town doesn’t hold back on the craziest desserts that will wow your entire family.

To make the day even sweeter, why not also stop at one of these nearby indoor play places? The kids will definitely need to burn off some energy after trying these over-the-top desserts in Dearborn.

Cheat Treats

• Address: 5838 Schaefer Road, Dearborn

While we certainly can try to be healthy with acai bowls and smoothies, there’s a reason this place is called Cheat Treats. The regular milkshakes come topped with favorites like Fruity Pebbles, Oreo cookies or Twix pieces. If you want to take it to the next level, you have to try one of the Freakshakes piled high with a combo of your favorite sweets.

House of Chimney Cakes

• Address: 22737 Michigan Ave., Dearborn

Chimney cakes are a Hungary treat that’s a sweet pastry wrapped up in a hollow shape and covered in sugar. The House of Chimney Cakes doesn’t stop there, though. At the Dearborn location, you’ll find many variations to fill the chimney cake with ice cream and toppings. Don’t like what they offer? No worries, you can build your own chimney cake, too.

La Gelati

• Address: 6901 Schaefer Road, Dearborn

When you walk into La Gelati, it’s going to be tough to choose between ice cream, crepes, waffles and milkshakes. Let’s help you narrow your choices down — you have to try one of the fun crepe recreations. We’re big fans of the sushi crepe but you can also try the fettuccini crepe (shaped like pasta!) or roller crepe stuffed with vanilla ice cream.

Mochi Dough and Bober Tea

• Address: 22370 Michigan Ave., Dearborn

 This nationwide chain is known for its premium Japanese doughnuts — mochi. The Dearborn location features a rotating menu of flavors like Pumpkin Pie, Cinnamon Roll and Nutella. You can pair a doughnut with one of the milk teas or for the parents, a specialty latte.

JJ’s Custard Company

• Address: 2801 Monroe St., Dearborn

You can no doubt get your custard fix at this Dearborn ice cream spot. Make the treat even more exciting with either the Sweet Buns stuffed with ice cream, the “Wowffle” ice cream sandwiches or The Cookie Monster if you’re craving a classic ice cream cookie sandwich.

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Take a Walk Through Glenlore Trails Haunted Forest

Glenlore Trails is back and better than ever! This haunted forest’s theme this year is CarnEvil, offering visitors a spooky, illuminated trail with interactive, carnival-themed games along the way. Glenlore Trails also features events happening all season long, including kid craft events, adult-only nights and trick-or-treating.

Quick details about Glenlore Trails The Haunted Forest: CarnEvil

Photo credit: Kari Zaffarano

• Address: 3860 Newton Road, Commerce Township
• Cost: $25/ages 13-plus, $20/ages 65-plus, $15/ages 4-12, free/ages 3 and under; Group rates are available; free/parking | Get tickets

Glenlore Trails The Haunted Forest: CarnEvil is open Thursdays-Sundays, Sept. 22-Oct. 29, 2023. Times vary by day.

Tips for families when visiting Glenlore Trails The Haunted Forest: CarnEvil

Photo credit: Kari Zaffarano

• If you have little ones, consider bringing a stroller or wagon. Although the trail isn’t paved, it is still a smooth enough ride for them.
• The trail is about an hour long, so make sure to use the restroom before you begin.
• Bring bug spray! You are walking through an actual forest and mosquitos are out. If you forget, the store sells a bug spray stick.
• If there is scattered rain/snow, the event will still go on. If the weather is more severe, they will notify you that it has been postponed and offer alternative dates or a refund.
• Families are encouraged to dress up in costume or deck themselves out in glow sticks and glow-in-the-dark items.

Things to do near Glenlore Trails

Photo credit: Sky Zone

• Spend the day at Long Family Orchard, Farm & Cider Mill. It has a corn maze and a fun farm area, which includes giant jumping pillows, goat farm, tube swing, giant slide, straw tunnels, pedal kart track and much more. Also, enjoy some cider and doughnuts, too.
• Jump around at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. This amusement park offers a foam zone, drop zone, toddler zone, the wall, ninja warrior course and more.
• Stop by the Commerce Township Community Library for one of the free storytimes and events for kids. It’s open until 9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and until 5 p.m. Fridays-Sundays.
• Want to stop at a kid-friendly brewery for a bite to eat? Go to CJ’s Brewing Company. The kids menu is for ages 12 and under and features a cheeseburger, pepperoni pizza, corn dog, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, mac n cheese or pasta.
• Right by the parking lot to Glenlore Trails you’ll find a wooden playscape, swings, a slide and monkey bars. If you get there when it’s still light outside before your reserved time, let your kids play for a bit.

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Five Ways to Live a Healthy Life on the Spectrum

Metro Detroit dad Ron Sandison worries about a harsh reality facing parents raising children with autism: Life expectancy for people with autism is only 55 years old, with higher incidences of cancer, obesity and anxiety, he says.

“We see that there’s a rise of unhealthiness in the United States, and people on the autism spectrum are affected much more highly by it than neurotypicals or people not on the spectrum. So it’s a big concern on my heart,” says Sandison, author, speaker and dad on the autism spectrum who is one of the participants in this year’s virtual Living With Autism Workshop Nov. 6-8, presented by Henry Ford Health and Metro Parent.

And it’s on the hearts of parents, too. 

From his extensive research, which he includes in a new upcoming book and shares in talks nationwide, he says there are five things parents can do to help their kids on the spectrum thrive instead of just survive.

“So people on the spectrum right now, a lot of them aren’t thriving. They’re barely surviving. There’s an old saying, you don’t drown by falling in water, you drown by staying in water. So my (new) book throws them that line so they can get out of that water that’s bringing them down by developing those skills, developing those talents and using those gifts to transform their world.” 

Five areas needing attention right now

1. A change in diet.

“One of the main reasons that people aren’t living as long is there’s an old saying that my grandparents said, ‘we are what we eat.’ And a lot of the foods people on the autism spectrum eat aren’t as healthy as what everyone else is eating. We eat a lot of chicken nuggets and processed foods,” he says.

Research has determined three out of four people on the spectrum are also obese.

Rather than pizza and nuggets, which kids on the spectrum love, he instead advocates switching to a Mediterranean diet, which features more fish, vegetables and fruits over red meats and processed food. 

“All these can help your kid live longer. What’s good about autism is we love a routine. So if you get a routine of a Mediterranean diet and eating healthy, then your child’s going to carry on that routine in their life and in their adulthood, and they’re not going to be part of that statistic of people with autism only living to 55,” he says.

Still, it might not be an easy switch away from chicken nuggets, he agrees. But start with tiny steps. Try homemade nuggets in the fast-food box if that’s your child’s jam, gradually increasing the vegetable content in them from a tiny speck to a majority of it, and changing the way they are “fried,” he recommends.

He also believes in a one-bite rule: “After you get a bite of this, then you’ll get that.” But never, say if you don’t eat this, no TV, because that’s a meltdown waiting to happen, he says.

“But if you do, ‘after you take a bite of this, then you get to have this snack,’ then you’ve got compromise and you’ve got the ability to help the kid change in what they’re eating.

2. More focus on sleep.

Sleep is another factor for people with autism, he says. “One of the things that most people with autism lack is sleep. And what’s interesting is that sleep is the most important thing we can do for our bodies,” Sandison says.

Not only does sleep help the body repair itself, it cuts down on anxiety. Days of only five or six hours of sleep can cause hyperactivity and impulsiveness and, on the extreme end, even psychosis. 

His tips:

Right before bed, turn on freezing water and have your child place their hands under it for 20 seconds, then wipe their wet cold hands all over their face. “That’s the first way we know our world is through our hands. … By putting cold water on your face, it’s going to make your temperature go down two degrees and will make you fall right asleep.”

If the child’s still not tired, encourage them to walk around a bit, then repeat the cold water routine and put them in bed.

In addition, for children with autism, turn off devices at least one hour before bedtime, he says.

3. Add exercise.

“I’m not talking about putting on a Jane Fonda exercise video or sweating to the ‘80s with Richard Simmons. What I’m talking about is this: any activity that gets your heart rate up for 30 minutes or more is going to create serotonin, endorphins, dopamine, the reward system. And a lot of times people with autism, they feel down,” he says.

The best exercise for a child with autism? Anything that will raise their heart rate, including swimming, jogging and even pushups.

“And once you make something a routine it becomes hard to break. People with autism, more than even neurotypical, we’re creatures of habit. So creating those habits are going to increase the lifespan of people with autism,” he says.

4. Combine favorite hobbies with coping skills.

By combining coping skills with a child’s hobby, it can help with anxiety, he says. Encourage them to practice it for an hour. Temple Grandin, the renowned autism advocate and educator, allows herself time for flapping after she does a presentation or gets off an airplane. “That’s her coping skill,” he says.

“Coping skills, that brings your anxiety down because you’re doing something you enjoy. Your mind’s off all the stress of the world.”

5. Focus on experiencing the joy of the moment.

Researchers in one study asked 100 people who are 100 and older how they lived so long, he says. It wasn’t food, exercise, hobbies or sleep. “They experience less anxiety in life and experience the joy of the moment, and that’s key. And people with autism have high anxiety.”

He says one of the things that happens is people with autism miss out on opportunities because their anxiety is so high that they are afraid of social interaction and afraid of missing social clues.

“So living in the moment, having that joy, will experience a longer life.”

Talk with Sandison at the Living With Autism Workshop

“By having your child do these five things – eat healthier, sleep more, exercise, coping skills that are hobbies and finding joy in life, in the simple things, they’re going to live a lot longer and they’re going to be healthier. So they’re going to have less meltdowns and confusion because they’re going to be happier,” he says.

He’ll answer questions Nov. 8, the last day of the three-day virtual workshop, as part of the Q+A session at 2:15 p.m. EST. Tickets are now available.

Sandison is the author of several award-winning books, including “Views from the Spectrum: A Window into Life” and “Faith with Your Neurodivergent Child, A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice, and Biblical Wisdom.”

Watch his website for news on his fabulous upcoming book about transitioning into adulthood. He says it teaches parents everything they need to know to help their children with autism find employment and relationships. On the site, he also offers fresh monthly autism-related content. Reach him directly at sandison456@hotmail.com.

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Thanksgiving Guide for Metro Detroit Families

Fall is already here and, before you know it, Thanksgiving will be just around the corner! 

There’s no better time of year for reflection, finding new ways to express gratitude and giving back to your community. Of course, we also love gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal together! 

However, the holidays can be stressful for many families. Whether you’re looking for tips to make hosting Thanksgiving dinner a bit easier, need ways to entertain your kids over holiday breaks or just need a creative recipe idea, we have everything you need for Turkey Day in our festive family guide. 

Find Thanksgiving break activities, craft and DIY decor ideas, delicious recipes and more — no thanks needed. 

Thanksgiving break activities

Most students only have a few days off school for Thanksgiving break, so why not take advantage of their free time and create some holiday memories? Check out these local Thanksgiving events, parades and 5K races for families, or try one of these activities over break. 

Visit a museum

Just because school is out of session doesn’t mean the learning has to stop! Check out one of these new exhibits for metro Detroit families. Plus, our handy family museum guides have all the info you need to know before you visit with your kids. 

Check out a new attraction

A couple of days off from work and school is the perfect time to visit that trendy new attraction you’ve been eyeing. Check out these new attractions that metro Detroit has to offer families. 

Get in the holiday spirit

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season and, believe it or not, plenty of winter holiday attractions are open by Thanksgiving. Try these festive activities to get in the holiday spirit or visit a holiday light display. 

Treat yourself to some shopping

Black Friday can be a great opportunity to score some deals and get ahead on your holiday shopping, but don’t forget about supporting local businesses on Small Business Saturday. Many towns and counties hold their own small business celebrations; find out how to support your community with these small business events.

At-home activities

Unwind and get into the Thanksgiving spirit with these crafts, children’s books and family nights that are perfect for celebrating the season. 

Create DIY Thanksgiving decor

Decorate your home with turkey crafts — including turkeys made out of paper bags, felt or pinecones — or make cornucopia treat bags. 

Read a seasonal book

Add a seasonal book to your child’s library. Check out these fun titles about fall or read a children’s book with Native American characters. 

Have a family game night

Bring a bit of competition or strategy to your next family gathering by hosting a game night. Try one of these fun family board games. We even found some educational games and board games that your tweens and teens can get excited about. 

Turkey Day recipes

These tips and recipes for your family’s Thanksgiving dinner have our mouths watering! From expert cooking tips to simple recipes you can bring to any holiday gathering, make this Thanksgiving so much yummier with these Turkey Day tips. 

Thanksgiving meal tips and tricks

Whether you’re making a side dish or you’ve hosted the family meal for years, get tips from top chefs in metro Detroit on everything from making the stuffing to the perfect apple pie. Plus, check out these simple hacks for elevating your Thanksgiving meal. 

Try a new recipe

Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and pie are all classics for a reason, but why not switch up your menu this year? Start things off with a peanut butter cinnamon hummus spread or serve whipped mashed potatoes. Find creative fall desserts and more in our Thanksgiving recipe roundup. 

Elevate your kids’ menu

Picky eaters don’t have to worry about these kid-approved holiday dishes. From bacon-wrapped veggies to bite-sized entrees and desserts, be sure to make extra so you can load your child’s plate with seconds! Plus, these recipes are so simple that your little chefs can help out in the kitchen. 

Let someone else do the cooking

Make the holiday meal prep a breeze by ordering Thanksgiving takeout from a local restaurant. 

Mocktail recipes for the entire family

Make your festivities stand out with a signature holiday drink. Try a holiday-themed mocktail or make one of these celebratory mocktails that are perfect for any occasion. Hosting tip: Make a large pitcher of your chosen recipe, then provide alcohol on the side so your guests can craft their perfect beverage, with or without alcohol.

Giving back

In between family time and enjoying delicious Thanksgiving food, make some time to share thanks and gratitude with your family. Here are a few ways to give back this holiday season. 

Ways to express gratitude

Find 30 unique ways to reflect on your family’s blessings and share thankfulness and gratitude in our practice of gratitude roundup. If you’re looking for a fun activity to teach your family about gratitude, be sure to try this Gratitude Photo Scavenger Hunt from Let’s Get Together. 

Family volunteering opportunities in metro Detroit

There’s no better way to show your gratitude for what you have than to use your time and talents to help others. Volunteer as a family at one of these local organizations that support pets, kids and families in need. 

Michigan charities to support

Teach your children to appreciate their blessings by sharing your abundance with a worthy cause. These local organizations support important causes in the community and are always grateful for donations.

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Family Road Trip Guide: Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, on the southern shore of Lake Erie, is the third largest metro area in the Great Lakes region, behind metro Detroit and Chicago. Professional sports, engaging museums, green spaces and sweet treats often lure visitors to The Land. My son and I recently visited to enjoy a Cleveland Indians game and check out Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Getting to Cleveland

Cleveland is only about a three-hour drive from the Detroit/Ann Arbor area, and you can plan several family-friendly stops on your way. Soar in Sandusky at Cedar Point, voted one of the best amusement parks in America. Take stunning pictures amongst sunflowers at Maria’s Field of Hope, which offers two locations — one near Cedar Point, another by Cleveland in Avon, Ohio. Imagination Station and National Museum of the Great Lakes are interesting excursions in Toledo, Ohio. You can also check out African Safari Wildlife Park or Seneca Caverns on your road trip.

Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio 

Museums

Cleveland boasts many museums and is known as the birthplace of rock and roll. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is fun to visit with kids who are into music history and costume displays. The Great Lakes Science Center offers interactive exhibits where you can make parachutes and put them to the test in a wind tube or virtually fly a supersonic jet. Little kids will love the Children’s Museum of Cleveland for its art room, theater stage and Wonder Lab with water tables and a vacuum scarf shooter.

Fans of the famous holiday movie will be thrilled to hear A Christmas Story House is open for tours. Learn how Cleveland was selected for the film site, say “Fra-Gee-Lay!” standing next to the famous leg lamp, hold props at The Bumpus House next door and purchase your own major award at the gift shop across the street.

Sports

Cleveland is home to several sports teams. Whether football, baseball, basketball, hockey or soccer is your jam, there are many matches to cheer on. The Cleveland Browns have a Family Zone where guests can enjoy the football game in an alcohol-free environment. My son and I had a blast watching the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Most of our time was spent at the Kids Clubhouse, which has numerous places to play and take photos. My boy was enthralled by the Tribe Tracker, a race from home plate to first base against a simulated Indians player. You can also watch a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball, Cleveland Monsters ice hockey or Cleveland SC soccer game.

Progressive Field. Photo credit: Cortney Fries

Outdoor Activities 

The seventh most visited national park of 2020, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a 30-minute drive from Cleveland. Stand on The Ledges for a scenic view for miles. Brandywine Falls is a 65-foot waterfall that’s viewable from a boardwalk platform after a short hike. Kids can become Junior Rangers and enjoy family-friendly activities in the free Junior Ranger Handbook. Take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for views of wildlife and other wonders. Wander over to Trail Mix, a gift shop that supports the national park, for local goods, sandwiches, beverages and buckeyes, the yummy chocolate peanut butter candy popular in Ohio.

The Cuyahoga River was voted No. 1 best place in North America for urban kayaking by USA Today 10Best readers. Paddle past bridges and buildings as you relax on the water with a kayak from Great Lakes Watersport. Cleveland has several exceptional waterfront restaurants in the surrounding entertainment area, dubbed The Flats.

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo recently opened a tandem zipline experience, Eagle Zip Adventure. Take in the Cleveland skyline from a 150-foot tower before zipping 700 feet at speeds up to 35 miles per hour over Waterfowl Lake. The zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, offers educational encounters and hands-on activities like giraffe feeding. The Cleveland Metroparks encompass almost 23,000 acres of green spaces around the city to run, play and relax.

Where to Stay in Cleveland, Ohio

My son and I stayed at the Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown. The former Cleveland Board of Education building was transformed into this upscale hotel, which opened in 2016. We loved the nod to the building’s history with touches like the Teachers’ Lounge, the hotel’s casual restaurant with ABCs on the wall. With a pool, free food and drinks at the “5:30 Kickback” social hour, and located within walking distance to many downtown attractions, we thought this hotel was the perfect choice for our visit.

Places to Eat in Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland has many dining options. I don’t know about your kids, but mine are most interested in desserts.

Grumpy’s Café is a family-owned breakfast and brunch eatery that offers indoor and outdoor dining. My son ordered the Cinnamon Apple Walnut French Toast — warm, cinnamon-glazed apples atop walnut-encrusted wheat bread — and it tasted like autumn on a plate. I thoroughly enjoyed The Carminator, which is scrambled eggs in a wheat wrap with spinach, grilled veggies, bacon, swiss cheese and chipotle mayo. We were the opposite of grumpy after eating there!

The Carminator, Grumpy’s Cafe. Photo credit: Cortney Fries

Lindey’s Lake House is a beachy restaurant with a spacious, breezy outdoor patio and large windows overlooking the Cuyahoga River in the Flats East Bank. The cracker-thin brick-oven pizza received rave reviews from my son. We also enjoyed our meal at the Teachers’ Lounge at Drury Plaza Hotel.

Now onto the desserts. Mitchell’s Ice Cream is a Cleveland favorite with nine locations in the area. Stop by the Ohio City neighborhood flagship shop for a peek at how they hand craft their ice creams with local ingredients. You can see the production kitchen as you order. Seasonal, vegan, yogurt and sorbet flavors are served, like autumn caramel apple and vegan cold brew.

Mason’s Creamery is a funky, small-batch ice cream shop that also serves ramen. They dish out standard flavors like cookies and cream as well as interesting options like cookie butter and popcorn. Try an egg waffle for a warm, toasty, breakfast-type waffle that’s wrapped around two scoops of ice cream.

b.a. Sweetie Candy Company is the largest retail candy store in North America. It’s a giant warehouse store with national brands, regional favorites and nostalgic candies. My son and I had fun exploring the seemingly endless variety of flavors and options, including crazy snacks like Larvets dried worms.

b.a. Sweetie also has mini golf and a soda shoppe, which features more than 200 flavors of soda and 36 flavors of homemade ice cream. Is this a kid’s dream come true or what? Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop is another stop where kids and kids at heart can indulge in vintage and hard-to-find treats.

Why Our Family Loves Cleveland, Ohio

My son and I enjoyed Cleveland because the city has unique entertainment and outdoor activities, plus it’s a just short drive away.

We especially had a great time watching the Cleveland Indians game at Progressive Field where some of The Land’s best eateries can be found. While attending a game, start with a gooey grilled cheese from Melt, kick back with a beer from a local brewery, such as Great Lakes Brewing Company, and top it all off with a treat from Sweet Moses, another ice cream shop. The Kids Clubhouse has so many fun and interactive options for families, like a slide and chances for little kids to play ball.

Bonus: The people in Cleveland were so friendly, brimming with recommendations for family-friendly things to do. And, of course, my sweetheart loved all the sweets.

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Best Things to Do with Metro Detroit Kids in October

There are always so many fun things to do with kids in southeast Michigan, so how is a busy parent supposed to keep track of it all? With our list of the best things to do this month, of course!

This October, we’ve found tons of family-friendly fun, including fall festivals and Halloween events for you to check out with your kids. We also have plenty of other autumn activities, including cider mills and apple orchards and the best fall Michigan color tour spots.

Here is our curated list of the can’t-miss activities for metro Detroit and Ann Arbor in October 2023.

So, what are you waiting for? Take a look and start the advanced prep for your next family outing.

Don’t see an event you love? Check out our online calendar for even more events and fun things to do. 

Macomb

Photo credit: Terror on Tilson Street

Terror on Tillson Street in Romeo 

Oct. 1-31, 2023

• Address: Tilson Street, between Sisson and South Main streets, Romeo
• Cost: Free

Each year, the residents of Tillson Street go all-out with their Halloween decorations. Drive through to check out the decor throughout the month and swing by on Halloween for trick-or-treating.

HarvestFest at Freedom Hill County Park

Oct. 21-22, 2023

• Address: 14900 Metro Pkwy., Sterling Heights
• Cost: Free

There will be a pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, games, music, inflatables, hayrides, food trucks and more. Make sure to wear your costume.  

Trick or Treat Trail at Clinton Township Civic Center 

Oct. 21, 2023

• Address: 40700 Romeo Plank Road
• Cost: $7/resident child, $9.50/non-resident child, free/adults | Register

Kids 11 and under can enjoy a “live” friendly character nature trail and collect toys and candy along the way. Each child will pick their own pie pumpkin out. Pre-registration required.

Halloween Puppet Show w/Alex Thomas & Friends at Fraser Public Library

Oct. 28, 2023

• Address: 15260 15 Mile Road, Fraser
• Cost: Free

Join the library for a Halloween-themed puppet show by Alex Thomas & Friends. After the shows, there will be a meet and greet with the puppets. Registration required. 

Halloween Parade at Sterling Heights Public Library

Oct. 30-31, 2023

• Address: 40255 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights
• Cost: Free

Dress up in costume and join the library for some Halloween stories, a trick-or-treat parade and a short Halloween movie. For children in sixth grade and younger. No strollers or wagons allowed. Registration is not required. 

Oakland

Photo credit: Canterbury Village/Janis Miller

American Speed Festival 2023 at M1 Concourse

Sept. 28-Oct. 1, 2023

• Address: 1 Concourse Drive, Pontiac
• Cost: $0-$200 | Get tickets

This year’s event celebrates 70 years of the Chevrolet Corvette and the 100th anniversary of Le Mans and their impact on sports cars. There will also be live music, interactive displays from sponsors and auto vendors, plus food and drinks at this family-friendly experience.

The Great Fall Festival at the Maybury Farm

Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 2023

• Address: 50165 Eight Mile Road, Northville 
• Cost: $13-$16/person, free/2 and under and must be seated on lap on wagon ride; additional costs for activities

This fest is filled with lots of activities for everyone. It offers tractor-drawn wagon rides, live music, farm animals, games, pumpkin decorating, corn maze, face painting and slime making.

Third Annual Festival of Hope at Novi Civic Center

Oct. 1, 2023

• Address: 45175 W. Ten Mile Road, Novi
• Cost: Free

The Third Annual Festival of Hope allows community members to connect with local organizations as well as enjoy fun-filled activities for all ages. There will be a juggling show, giveaways and more.

Halloween Stroll at Canterbury Village 

Oct. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, 2023

• Address: 2359 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion
• Cost: $14.99/person, $5/parking | Get tickets

Stroll through Canterbury Village in costume and enjoy encounters with characters and themed exhibits, such as a haunted pet cemetery and a creepy circus. There are plenty of photo opportunities along that way.

Harvest Festival at Upland Hills Farm

Oct. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29, 2023

• Address: 481 Lake George Road, Oxford
• Cost: $12/person, free/2 and under, group rate: $10/person for 10 or more people | Get tickets

Enjoy farm show demonstrations, magic shows, hayrides, a walk through the storybook trail and more at this annual fall festival.

Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo

Oct. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 2023

• Address: 8450 W. Ten Mile Road, Royal Oak
• Cost: $17-$23/general admission, free/under 2, $8/parking (including for members) | Get tickets

The Detroit Zoo will be open until dark for this annual “merry-not-scary” Halloween celebration, which features strolling entertainment, Halloween face painting, photo opportunities, trick-or-treating stations and more. This year, it has added themed weekends. Oct. 7-8 is Nerd Out in Nature, Oct. 14-15 is Monster Mash and Oct. 20-22 is Movies, Books & Make Believe!

Halloween Hoot at Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve

Oct. 20-22, 2023

• Address: 333 N. Hill Circle, Rochester
• Cost: $10/person, free/under 3 | Register

This 32nd annual bash features spooky nature fun, including trail walking, campfire entertainment and more. Registration required.

Trick-or-Treat: Fairy Tales and Folklore at Troy Historic Village

Oct. 20-21, 2023

• Address: 60 W. Wattles Road, Troy
• Cost: $7-$8/members, $9-$10/non-members | Register

This year’s theme is Fairy Tales and Folklore. Families can expect enchanting decorations, games, crafts and trick-or-treating. Register in advance for reduced admission.

Halloween Science at Cranbrook Institute of Science 

Oct. 21-22, 2023

• Address: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
• Cost: Free w/museum admission

Wear your costumes and investigate the science behind Halloween through demonstrations, hands-on activities and more at this annual event.

Trunk or Treat at Acacia Park Cemetery

Oct. 21, 2023

• Address: 31300 Southfield Road #1, Beverly Hills
• Cost: Free

Try this unique trunk-or-treat event that takes place in a cemetery. It will also feature costume contests for children, adults, pets, couples and group costumes.

Meadow Brook Hall-oween at Meadow Brook Hall

Oct. 22, 2023

• Address: 350 Estate Drive, Rochester
• Cost: $15/person, free/under 3 | Register

Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the historic mansion and outdoors on the grounds of the estate. Cider and doughnuts will be provided. Advanced registration required.

Trick or Eat-Family Trunk or Treating at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

Oct. 29, 2023

• Address: 620 Romeo St., Rochester
• Cost: Free

The Halloween fun includes Trunk or Treating, yard games, a pet costume parade and Little Lou’s Hot Chicken Food Truck.

Trick-or-Treat Trail at Marshbank Park 

Oct. 29, 2023

• Address: 2805 Hiller Road, West Bloomfield Township
• Cost: $7/child for residents, $9/child for non-residents | Register

Families can enjoy this safe and friendly half-mile paved trail at Marshbank Park during the Trick-or-Treat Trail event. Put on your costume and head out to collect goodies from costumed characters, local businesses and organizations. Advanced registration is required.

Washtenaw

Photo credit: Tiny Lions lounge & Adoption Center

Yoga with Cats at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center

Oct. 1, 5, 12, 19, 26, 2023

• Address: 5245 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor
• Cost: $10/person | Register

Ages 12 and up can join Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center to practice yoga with the furry feline yoga masters on Thursdays. You may bring your own yoga mat or borrow one of theirs. Pre-registration and advance payment required.

Fiber Expo at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds 

Oct. 7-8, 2023

• Address: 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Road, Ann Arbor
• Cost: $4/admission for one day, $6/admission for two days, free/ages 12 and under (cash only)

This annual event brings in people interested in plant- and animal-based fibers, including wool, cotton, linen and more.

Yoga with Cats at Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center

Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, 2023

• Address: 5245 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor
• Cost: $10/person | Register

Ages 12 and up can join Tiny Lions Lounge & Adoption Center to practice yoga with the furry feline yoga masters. You may bring your own yoga mat or borrow one of theirs. Pre-registration and advance payment required.

Fishville Farms Booth or Treat A Craft & Vendor Show at Chelsea Community Fairgrounds

Oct. 14-15, 2023

• Address: 1400-1430 Old Manchester Road, Chelsea
• Cost: Free

Enjoy this family-friendly Fishville Farms Booth or Treat A Craft & Vendor Show at Chelsea Community Fairgrounds. Kids can trick-or-treat at all the vendors while parents do their shopping.

A2 Artoberfest in Downtown Ann Arbor

Oct. 28-29, 2023

• Address: 4th Avenue & Ann Street, Ann Arbor
• Cost: Free

Explore the work of more than 100 jury-selected fine artists. There will also be live entertainment, food, drinks and shopping.

Thrills at the Mills at Hudson Mills Metropark

Oct. 28, 2023

• Address: 8801 N. Territorial Road, Dexter
• Cost: Free; parking pass required

At this Halloween event, there will be games, costume contest and prizes for the dogs and a Trunk-or-Treat event and activities for the kids. Pre-registration is required for treaters, trunks and dogs.

Halloween Puppet Show! at Ann Arbor District Library

Oct. 31, 2023

• Address: 343 S. 5th Ave., Ann Arbor
• Cost: Free

Kids in preschool-grade 3 can join AADL for a Halloween puppet show, stories, songs and more.

Wayne

Photo Credit: Ford House

Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos 2023 at the Detroit Institute of Arts

Sept. 23-Nov. 5, 2023

• Address: 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit
• Cost: Free w/general admission

The DIA, in collaboration with Detroit’s Mexican Consulate, displays ofrenda altars, or offerings, created by community members in celebration of the holiday Día de Muertos.

2023 Fall Festival at Brownstown Event Center

Oct. 7, 2023

• Address: 23345 King Road, Brownstown Township
• Cost: Free

Families can check out this annual event where there will be an array of crafters and vendors, food, raffles and more.

Wilson Barn Pumpkin Fest at Wilson Barn

Oct. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29, 2023

• Address: 29350 W. Chicago, Livonia
• Cost: Free

Pick the perfect pumpkin and enjoy cider, doughnuts, crafters, corn stalks, yard games and more.

Disney Animation: Immersive Experience at Lighthouse ArtSpace Detroit

Through Oct. 9, 2023

• Address: 311 E. Grand River, Detroit
• Cost: $27.99-plus | Get tickets

Sing along and experience your favorite Disney songs and movies in an all-new immersive experience.

Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza at Fox Theatre

Oct. 20, 2023

• Address: 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit
• Cost: $20-plus | Get tickets

Kids can dress up for the show in their favorite costumes. The show will feature Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Puppy Dog Pals, Doc McStuffins and more.

Mandela: The Official Exhibition at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Opens Oct. 21, 2023

• Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn
• Cost: Free w/museum admission or for members

Mandela: The Official Exhibition takes guests on a journey through the life of the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and political leader, Nelson Mandela. This immersive and interactive experience features previously unseen film, photos and historical artifacts and personal effects on loan to the museum.

Pumpkin Palooza in Downtown Plymouth

Oct. 22, 2023

• Address: Downtown Plymouth area
• Cost: Free

Pumpkin Palooza is a family fun Halloween extravaganza with costume contests, games and live entertainment.

A Year with Frog and Toad at The Marlene Boll Theatre

Oct. 27-29, 2023

• Address: 1401 Broadway St., Detroit
• Cost: $30/adult, $15/ages 4-college student, free/ages 3 and under | Get tickets

See Detroit Mercy Theatre Company’s production of A Year with Frog and Toad at The Marlene Boll Theatre in Detroit. It’s based on the books by Arnold Lobel. The show runs for 75 minutes with no intermission. Recommended for all ages.

Autism Fall Festival at Success On The Spectrum

Oct. 28, 2023

• Address: 3701 West Road, Trenton
• Cost: Free

This fall festival will feature games, arts and crafts, food, a balloon artist and more. All ages and all abilities are welcome.

Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest Presented by Strategic Staffing Solutions at Grand Circus Park 

Oct. 28, 2023

• Address: 101-157 Witherell St., Detroit
• Cost: Free

At the 10th Annual Grand Circus Dog Park Howl-O-Ween Costume Party, owners are encouraged to dress their pup up for a chance to win a prize. There will also be a DJ, delicious treats for the fur babies and their humans and more.

Little Goblins at Ford House

Oct. 28, 2023

• Address: 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores
• Cost: $15/child for members, $5/adult for members, $20/child for non-members, $8/adult for non-members, free/2 and under who are not trick-or-treating | Register

Bring your little goblins to Ford House for this annual day of Halloween entertainment filled with spooky yet kid-friendly fun. There will be trick-or-treating stops, photo ops and a haunt-free wagon ride. Advanced registration required.

Motor City Brass Band “Horns & Howls” at Ford Community & Performing Arts Center

Oct. 29, 2023

• Address: 15801 Michigan Ave., Dearborn
• Cost: $18/adult, free/ages 12 and under | Get tickets

Motor City Brass Band returns with its annual performance, which features Halloween music. Come dressed in costume.

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